Screening highlights exploitation in fishing industry

One of Scotland’s leading campaigners against human trafficking is among those taking part in a cinema event in Glasgow designed to bring about positive social change.

Shan Saba, founder of Scotland Against Modern Slavery, will be among those at the screening of Ghost Fleet at the Glasgow Film Theatre on 23 September.

First released last year, the film examines the human exploitation that lies at the heart of the global fishing industry. It is based on the research of Bangkok-based activist Patima Tungpuchayakul, who has committed her life to rescuing fishermen from Southeast Asia who have been trafficked into slavery on Thai fishing boats.

After the screening, Shan will be joined by Rachel Wilshaw, head of Ethical Trade at Oxfam BG, in leading an audience discussion about the reality of worker exploitation in the food industry.

Speaking ahead of the screening, Shan said: “Personally I think that the business community is starting to see that this is a problem that is not going to go away, and because business, government and charities are coming to that realisation, it is generating higher awareness among the public at large.

“It’s not like Brexit, which is just happening and we are all watching it, but there is nothing we can do about it. This has a personal element – these are people we are talking about, and there are things that we can all do to help end modern slavery.”

The event has been organised by Edinburgh-based charity Take One Action, which brings together film lovers, cultural activists and globally concerned citizens who believe that shared cinematic experience can catalyse lasting change.

Monday’s event in Glasgow will be followed by a screening of Ghost Fleet in Edinburgh on Tuesday September 24.

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